Kidney Biopsy

In most cases, a nephrologist who is highly trained in performing kidney biopsies will perform the biopsy. However, in specific circumstances, interventional radiology can also perform kidney biopsies with help from a CT scan.

You will be asked to fast for at least 8 hours before arriving at the hospital. Patients are not allowed to drive themselves home the day of a biopsy.

What Happens During a Kidney Biopsy?

1. You will first be directed to a waiting area and an IV will be placed. If your blood pressure is elevated, you may receive oral or IV medication to reduce the blood pressure to reduce your risk of any complications.
2. Once you are checked in and your vital signs are stable, you will be moved the ultrasound suite.
3. An ultrasound is used to locate the best approach for the biopsy. Then, your skin will be cleaned and a numbing agent will be applied.
4. You will be asked to lay still while your provider uses an ultrasound to guide a needle into the kidney and remove a very small piece of tissue.

After the biopsy is completed, you will be asked to lay flat on your back for about four hours.

You will typically be allowed to eat and drink normally after the biopsy. You may have repeat blood work a few hours after the biopsy to make sure that your blood counts are stable.

Your nephrologist will be in contact with you when the results of the biopsy are available. While a preliminary report may be available as early as the same day, the final report can often take two weeks.